On Sunday April 23, 2017 the Reverend W. Leo O'Daniel received the highest calling a person can receive, to be one with the LORD.  Born January 10, 1938 in Pindall AR to Columbus L. and Ruthie Mae O'Daniel.  Leo moved with his family to the Tri-City region in 1947 where Leo attended the Kiona-Benton schools, playing basketball during his senior year.  During his senior year, Leo met a wonderful young lady from Prosser WA, Anna L. Rusk, who would become his bride on February 19, 1956.  Shortly after graduating, Leo went to work at the Hanford Area Mail Room; this was the beginning of a 38-year career at the Hanford Site.  Leo and family attended the Kennewick Apostolic Tabernacle where he felt the calling to the ministry.

In the early 1970's Leo founded the Richland United Pentecostal church in his home before moving to a remnant section of the original Sacajawea Elementary School on the corner of Williams and Stevens.  From there the church moved to 513 Barth Ave. where he pastored until retiring in 1995.  The church, now the Tower of Pentecost - Richland UPC, was turned over to Rev. Grant Knowles who continues as pastor.  Leo retained his ministry license until the day of his passing.  In 2012 Leo was honored as a "Hero of the Faith" by the Washington District of the United Pentecostal Church International.

The Reverend was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Anna L. O'Daniel in September 2013.  He is survived by his eldest son Leo DeWayne O'Daniel, daughter Lorrine L. (Alvin) Keck, and youngest son Clifford L. (Corrine) O'Daniel, all of Richland.  These 3 children have brought many grand-children and great grand-children into his life. 

The Reverend's love for his LORD was shown to and felt by those who found it a privilege to be a part of his life.  His influence and genuine love for people has had an impact on scores of saints and ministers of the gospel.  Leo's favorite verse was Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." continues to touch the hearts of those that knew him.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday May 6, 2017 at the Tower of Pentecost, 930 Aaron Dr. in Richland, WA.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Tower of Pentecost - Richland UPC, for this church was the life-blood of his soul.